DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/9GS3-YT98
Defense Date
2012
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Rosalie Corona
Abstract
The increasingly high rates of body dissatisfaction among adolescent girls are alarming. Research suggests that cultural norms emphasizing thinness and unrealistic standards of beauty may be contributing to this growing problem. This is concerning given the link between negative body image and a host of unhealthy behaviors in girls. Although historically African American adolescent girls have exhibited higher levels of body satisfaction than their counterparts, there is growing evidence to suggest that this may be changing because of the body-related messages they receive from their parents, peers and the media. The present study examines these messages from both maternal caregivers’ and girls’ perspectives. Additionally, the importance African American girls place on non-weight related aspects of their body (i.e., hair and skin color) and how these factors influence their body image perceptions are also examined. Limitations, strengths, prevention implications, and directions for future research are also discussed.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
December 2012